Bone-level changes around delayed dental implants in previous large bone defects filled with reactive soft tissue after extraction: A cone beam computed tomography study

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate new bone regeneration around delayed implants positioned in large bone defects, filled with reactive soft tissue, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) at a follow-up of 3 years. Materials and Methods: Patients presented large bone defects after tooth extraction. Reactive soft tissue was left in the defects, and no grafts were used. CBCT scans were performed before tooth extraction and upon implant placement (at 3 months after extraction), and bone volume measurements were then evaluated 3 years after implant placement. Results: Three months after extraction, CBCT revealed a bone volume gain both for single-rooted and multirooted sites: an overall mean bone level of 8.34 ± 3.18 mm was calculated, and implants were placed. At the 3-year follow-up, CBCT revealed bone maintenance, with mean levels of 10.47 ± 3.68 mm. Statistically significant differences were not observed between 3-month and 3-year bone levels, both for maxillary or mandibular defects and for sites (single-rooted or multirooted teeth). Conclusion: CT scans presented a successful outcome of delayed implants placed in large bone defects at the 3-year follow-up.